Muv-Luv photonmelodies make up a collection of fandiscs that takes the Muv-Luv series in a few new directions. Each story gives us more insight into this world, with the notable inclusion of Altered Fable. Most of the storytelling comes from a lighthearted perspective, but the pacing is on point for each title, and some of the scenarios make up my favorite in the series. The comedic elements might not always stick, but photonmelodies nails its delivery with excellent character writing and a few good plot points.

Mighty Goose is a guns-blazing run-and-gunner that wears its Metal Slug inspiration on its sleeve. With hectic combat and a colorful design, it’s a fun action experience that knows how to use its comedy vein well. If you’ve ever felt the need to play as a powerful space goose, your prayers have been answered.

Deliver Us the Moon is a space adventure for everyone. Most of the minor issues can be easily overlooked since it’s so easy to become invested in the narrative. Furthermore, the puzzles and hazards offer a challenge that doesn’t stifle the player and simply acts as a nice breather from the story bits. If you’re in the mood for a story that harbors some mystery and thrill, this is the one to pick up.

GrimGrimoire OnceMore is not a game for everyone. Even if you’re a fan of Vanillaware’s other works, this title’s gameplay approach is distinct, comprising a continual cycle of inevitable failure and growth that is not an all-pleasing cup of tea. Still, for those who manage to get into it, this is an addictive strategy RPG with numerous in-depth systems that make progress an always enjoyable affair. And the story is quite compelling, with an intriguing cast bolstered by a charming protagonist who you’ll find yourself rooting for. By the end, you’ll be wondering where all those hours went.

Haven took me by complete surprise with its relatable characters and emotional love story. Gliding from island to island is endlessly fun and is a great way to take in its bright art direction. While there are some performance issues, the overall story and exploration had me hooked from beginning to end. If you’re looking for a romantic and fantastic narrative Haven has a beautiful world ready to explore.

Loop Hero has all the right ingredients for an adventure management game with roguelike systems. There’s a learning curve to tackle, but after a few runs, you’ll be piecing together the world in no time. The entire experience is cathartic in a way as you watch the world evolve from your actions and overcome its obstacles with a little skill and luck. Unlike what Devolver Digital advertised at the announcement, it may not be game of the year material, but it’s still worth giving it a try.

Bomb Rush Cyberfunk is a love letter that undoubtedly does more than enough to captivate Jet Set Radio veterans and those who have no idea what it is. Between the contextually stellar soundtrack, fantastic movement system, and intricate narrative, you’re bound to find yourself attached to some part of this experience that boasts its heart on its sleeve. Even though the combat scenarios can overstay their welcome, and the pacing can be a turn-off, looking past those faults provides a one-of-a-kind skating dream.

In many ways, Megaton Musashi W: Wired is quintessential Level-5, with terrific narrative and character writing alongside an addictive gameplay loop that rarely grows dull. Mech enthusiasts and newcomers will equally find facets to enjoy here. However, the story pacing and barrier of entry with mech customization prevent this mostly story-driven experience from truly soaring to loftier heights.

Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2 builds upon the foundation that the first entry laid out and made the entire experience more accessible without taking away the challenge for genre lovers. There’s room for balance when switching between single and cooperative modes, but there is nothing more fun than taking down demons with a friend in this adventure. Do yourself a favor and pick this game up.

While The Rising Tide stumbles with its explorable scope and characterization for select individuals, its combat highs are standout. Fans of the base game and the first DLC should definitely pick this up if they haven’t already.

1000xRESIST delivers a powerful and immersive sci-fi narrative that explores deep themes of trauma and cultural identity. While its complex dialogue and heavy themes can be challenging, the game's high-quality visuals, engaging characters, and unique setting make it a compelling experience worth diving into. This game provides a thought-provoking journey that encourages empathy and understanding, making it a standout in the visual novel genre.

Atelier Sophie 2 offers a heartwarming and nostalgic adventure. While most of the cast is new, the game doesn’t shy away from providing a narrative that both new and returning fans can enjoy. Its battle system is highly addictive as it evolves throughout the game, mirrored by the updated synthesis system with streamlined options and quality-of-life improvements. There are some low points in this adventure, but Atelier Sophie 2 proves traditional JRPGs can still flourish in this modern world.

Deathloop is for detective nerds who just want to blow shit up. Each moment of this game offers some insane new plot twists and discoveries that further highlights how amazing the writing is. Players are rewarded through exploration, but at the cost that they could lose it all if they die in the process. It's an experience that demands a keen eye and patience at times to unlock everything it has to offer, but at least the dumb enemies will rarely get in your way.

Cassette Boy is a cleverly designed indie puzzle adventure that uses perspective as both a visual gimmick and a core gameplay mechanic. With a lo-fi aesthetic and cryptic progression, it invites players to experiment, explore, and interpret its world without handholding. Though its minimal storytelling and subtle design may not suit everyone, its creative puzzles and environmental twists offer a uniquely rewarding experience for those who embrace curiosity over direction.

9-nine-: Episode 3 ends up slingshotting this series to a must-read mystery visual novel. It not only expands on the more interesting aspects of the series, but it successfully balances a new serious tone with a few memorable comedic moments. Even with the slow opening and lack of 1080p illustrations, the narrative expertly sets up the next title, and now all we can do is wait.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak brings a fresh start to the Trails series with its new Calvard arc. Featuring an ambitious narrative, innovative gameplay systems, and a compelling new protagonist, Van Arkride, this entry captivates both new and returning players. Despite some issues with difficulty and the LGC alignment system, Daybreak stands out as a remarkable and modern addition to Falcom's storied catalog.

SAROS delivers a confident evolution of Housemarque’s roguelite formula, pairing exhilarating bullet-hell combat and exceptional boss design with meaningful progression systems that give each run a satisfying sense of growth. While its moment-to-moment gameplay consistently impresses through tight mechanics and smart use of haptics, the narrative struggles to keep pace, relying too heavily on logs and lacking cohesion in its delivery. Even so, the game’s distinct identity, strong encounter design, and engaging loop make it a compelling, if uneven, PlayStation experience that soars more often than it stumbles.

Mortal Kombat 1 is a welcome addition to a thriving fighting game landscape. The new systems build on top of the already established foundation created in Mortal Kombat 11 but in a more refined way. It doesn’t shy away from its gorey roots, and thankfully the Kameo system is far better than the voice cameos heard throughout the campaign. Essentially, this is Mortal Kombat done in a way that embraces more powerful hardware and delivers an experience that lives up to the legacy of the series.

9 R.I.P. is a unique otome game that explores horror elements to create compelling backstories and circumstances for our protagonist to face. With the usual quality we’ve come to expect from Otomate, this is a great experience throughout.

Wizard with a Gun is an engaging action adventure that seamlessly blends roguelike and crafting elements. It initially feels slow in the opening hours, but players who stick with it will find themselves deeply immersed, enhancing their base and character. This game offers an enjoyable experience even if you’re not a survival genre enthusiast. Plus, its multiplayer functionality adds significant replay value, making it a well-rounded gaming choice. Don’t be deterred by a sluggish start; Wizard with a Gun has much to offer.

Even though I wish the in-game shop had more meaningful unlockables, and the minigames weren’t an all-pleasing cup of tea, Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble is an honest-to-goodness attempt at resurging this series once again. I believe it to be the best attempt yet.

The skill system and balance are fine-tuned to offer each side a chance of victory, but the current state of the game for this review does come with a few moments of crashes and glitches. None of these take away from the fun and anxiety-inducing matchups players are bound to have.

Radiant Tale was an absolute treat to play. The fantasy elements that it introduced were properly utilized, and besides a few translation issues, it had a well-paced narrative that didn’t drag itself out and properly ties the knot on its main plot points. While the romance does take a bit of a backseat, all of its characters are unique and well-written, so if you were looking for a good otome game for this Summer, then why not watch as CIRCUS perform their number for you?

Assault Suit Leynos 2 Saturn Tribute brings the long-lost SEGA Saturn mech classic to modern audiences with a stellar remaster. Featuring a newly translated script, quality-of-life upgrades, and refined gameplay, this port makes one of the most technically impressive 2D action games of the 32-bit era more accessible than ever. While minor balance tweaks improve the experience, the game's demanding difficulty and occasional ammo shortages may still challenge newcomers. Nonetheless, this is the definitive way to play a once-forgotten masterpiece.

Earnest Evans Collection compiles three cult 90s Wolf Team action titles that showcase striking pixel art, ambitious presentation, and memorable music, but the experience is undermined by loose controls, chaotic combat, and weak game design that make these relics more historically interesting than genuinely enjoyable.

In this era of endless releases where developers and publishers constantly seek ways to reinvent the wheel and push the capabilities of imagination, the Lunar Remastered Collection is a welcome and soothing throwback. While there is not much on the gameplay side of the package that is strikingly conspicuous, the moderate challenge requires steady upkeep. Plus, the real draws of both titles, the characters, soundtracks, and the setting, shine for those seeking heartfelt adventures that seamlessly balance humor, romance, and drama.

Even though the narrative is fairly unmemorable and the progression is awkward, there’s a wholehearted sense of endearment permeating from its NPCs and comedic interactions. When also considering the fact that there’s upcoming DLC, hopefully FANTASY LIFE i is supported with new content for the foreseeable future. It’s relieving to witness an outright success for modern Level 5; here’s hoping it’s a sign of what’s to come for the developer.

Synergy is a charming and strategic off-world city builder by Leikir Studio, blending survival, exploration, and resource management in a beautifully alien setting. With its relaxing yet challenging gameplay and rich atmospheric details, it's a standout addition to the genre for both casual and dedicated city-builder fans.

A gentle, introspective adventure set in a snow-covered Moominvalley, Moomintroll: Winter’s Warmth trades the lively energy of its predecessor for a quieter, more reflective journey about embracing the unfamiliar. By centering on Moomintroll’s discomfort with winter and gradual growth, the game delivers a heartfelt narrative supported by cozy exploration, light puzzle-solving, and meaningful character interactions. While its smaller cast and slower pace may not appeal to everyone, its charm, atmosphere, and respect for the source material make it a warm, inviting experience that lingers long after the snow melts.

Frank and Drake is an exceptionally well-crafted game, and I was transfixed for almost the entire experience, uncovering the secrets and mysteries it held. The unique atmosphere conjured from the distinct visual styles and fantastic soundtrack is utterly amazing. If you want to kick back with a narrative full of intrigue, then this is definitely not a title to pass up.

Yunyun Syndrome!? Rhythm Psychosis is a deeply unconventional rhythm game that fuses denpa-inspired psychological storytelling with a meme-heavy, chaotic soundtrack and a deceptively simple gameplay loop. While its four-lane mechanics are accessible, the real draw lies in its unsettling tonal shifts, meta-narrative elements, and the disturbing yet compelling relationship between Qtie and her imagined savior Yunyun. It is not a pure rhythm experience nor a fully story-driven game, but rather an experimental hybrid that rewards players who embrace its strangeness and emotional dissonance.

Alwa’s Legacy is a vibrant adventure that takes some of the best aspects of the genre and puts just enough of a spin on it to set it apart. Using magic, puzzle-solving, and exploration through the charming world of Alwa is a real joy. There may be a few hiccups in its control scheme and execution, but it doesn’t take away from the overall experience. Zoe might not be the best with memories but this is one quest you won’t soon forget.

Tchia is truly a magical experience where players uncover the world through the eyes of a protagonist who is experiencing it along with them for the first time. The culture of this region is expertly woven into the gameplay systems, so you never feel like this is a learning game. Further, the fantasy mechanics of Soul Jumping work well alongside the emotional narrative that keeps players engaged from beginning to end. You may find yourself lost along the way, but there is so much to discover in this adventure that you’ll keep pushing forward.

Super Meat Boy Forever is clearly a lovingly designed sequel to the original hard as nails platformer. It takes on a new genre but still retains some familiar beats to keep players coming back for more. It might not be the sequel some fans were waiting for, but on its own, it’s an addictingly well-designed platformer for a modest price.

UNSIGHTED is clearly a well-crafted adventure that gives the player a ton of different options for how they’ll play it. The combat is fluid and visceral, the environments form a beautiful obstacle course that’s always a blast to navigate, and the story delivers a cast of diverse characters and a well-deserved payoff at the end. Studio Pixel Punk’s first game can easily stand with the Hollow Knights and Oris of the indie action landscape.

The rather short total play time might be a downer for certain players, and the grinding being almost required might get annoying, but in essence, this remake of Live A Live felt like a qualitative title that had so much love and time put into it, to make this JRPG masterpiece from the Super Famicom now available to a broader audience, and this time, outside its home country. It’s not perfect, of course, but it does so much, so right.

WitchSpring R showcases a brilliant gameloop of balancing its story progression with its many systems. On the box, it may seem like too much information to retain, but in practice, it all blends seamlessly together to never hold the player back from progression. The adventure is massive, too, with a lengthy campaign and a large connected world with plenty to explore. I’m glad it’s not just Pieberry’s illustrations that received the remastered treatment, and the developers put together something truly fun for fans, both new and returning.

It's clear that a lot of love went into making Streets of Rage 4. The developers have taken this classic series and added just enough to make it their own while also building off of what makes this series so great. The length of the adventure may be an issue for some, but there are more than enough reasons to return to the streets for another round.

Despite some minor setbacks, Eyes in the Dark holds a lot of charm and fun. Each run may take a little longer, but that time flies by — despite the simplicity of the enemies and difficulty. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and there is much to see with Eyes in the Dark.

Collection of SaGa Final Fantasy Legend is a great piece of retro RPG history made readily available for modern gamers. The added options add a layer of accessibility lacking in the series, but it still retains its minimalistic design and leaves progression in the player’s hands. Bottom line, this is an amazing collection for RPG fans, and you won’t be disappointed spending an afternoon pretending your switch is a Game Boy and going on an adventure.

Death Howl is a haunting and demanding Soulslike deckbuilder that rewards patience, adaptability, and strategic thinking across a 26-hour journey on Switch. Blending cryptic storytelling with tactical grid-based combat, it challenges players to refine their decks, weigh risk versus reward, and embrace failure as part of progression. While its melancholic tone and layered systems create a memorable adventure, some UI frustrations and reliance on card draw luck hold it back from true greatness.

Super Mario 3D All-Stars is a collection of three of the most genre-defining releases in 3D platformer history. It brings these games together and makes them easily accessible to give gamers a chance to experience these titles for the first time or the hundredth. I’m left wishing that there was more included with the releases such as additional options or extras, but it’s undeniable that this is a must-play for Switch owners.

Super Bomberman Collection is a heartfelt tribute to Hudson Soft’s iconic series, delivering seven classic titles, including never-before-localized entries, in one nostalgic package. While it nails the core charm and chaotic fun of the originals, it misses opportunities to modernize the experience in meaningful ways. Longtime fans will appreciate the preserved quirks and expanded local multiplayer, but the lack of online support and quality-of-life updates may frustrate newer players.

Carrion is a unique game and one that is refreshing and fun to play. The gameplay is smooth, and the arcadelike aspect of hastily crawling around eating scientists is both humorous and satisfying. While there are portions of it that I found confusing and slow, the core gameplay was enjoyable enough to where I didn’t mind the negatives. Carrion has a little bit of everything, and I would recommend it to anyone who is tired of being the protagonist in distress.

Disgaea 6: Defiance of Destiny is an awesome entry in the series that brings forth new characters and 3D graphics. The battle animations and tactical systems are as prominent as ever, with a cast that carries the story campaign from beginning to end. There are some moments of growing pains found in this updated graphical direction and added auto systems, but I still found plenty of enjoyment taking down the God of Destruction and showing my SRPG skills. Too bad so many Prinnies had to die along the way.

White Shadows doesn’t miss a beat and has players uncover its dark narrative through clever platforming and light puzzles. There are moments where the pacing slows down, but the nightmare of this adventure is expertly delivered without heavy dialogue. By the end, developer Monokel had me questioning what the hell I had just experienced, but I engaged during every moment.

Terra Nil delivers an eco-based message with themes found in its core experience as you aim to bring Earth back to its glory days. Although terraforming each map can be difficult, even in zen mode, you’re encouraged to keep trying thanks to a relaxing gameloop. Its pacing allows players to focus on creating what is essentially a painting of a beautiful eco landscape which makes completing each area of the world worthwhile. From wasteland to beauty, Terra Nil delivers a much-needed vacation to players looking to sit back and create.

Astlibra Revision is the most unconventional JRPG I’ve ever played. Its story is absolutely wild and unpredictable, making the experience a captivating one. Even when considering translation faults, this plot will strap you in for the long haul. Further, the gameplay systems are refined, giving rise to cathartic growth and customization. On top of that, the soundtrack is masterclass.

There is a lot of excellent game design packed into the Mega Man Zero/ZX Legacy Collection. With the added Z Chaser, save assist, and casual mode, the series is now more accessible than ever with added modes for returning fans. Any of the shortcomings of one title is made up for in the other, which makes it easy to say that that this collection is 2D action at its finest.

Sakura Wars is an excellent reboot of the series and does right by the fans by subtly tying in mentions of its predecessors without overburdening new players. The game is fueled by its strong narrative and passionate cast of characters who fight against-all-odds for what they believe in. Sure, some of the arcs don't totally stick, and the romance can get a little messy, but it accomplishes the goal of giving fans a modernized Sakura Wars experience, without sacrificing what makes it unique.

I Walk Among Zombies Vol. 3 caps off this trilogy with some of the best pacing the series offers. The main protagonists’ character growth shines, with only a few stumbles leading up to the conclusion. The art work and writing fuel the deadly themes for a genuinely captivating read. This entry alone is reason enough to play through the previous titles, which continually delivers a unique and thrilling narrative.

Burnout Paradise Remastered is fueled by its over-the-top arcade systems that consistently reward the player no matter how they tackle the races. This ease of access makes it a must-play, even to those who aren’t too familiar with the genre. Luckily for long time fans, the game has aged well over the years and still retains it’s core features on the Switch.

As it stands, Guilty Parade is an auspicious beginning to a series with an engaging cast of characters to befriend, a mysterious and intriguing setting, and beautiful artwork that helps bring everything to life. Fans of stylized visual novels with a quirky cast and gameplay, such as 999 and Danganronpa, should definitely check it out.

Dungeons of Hinterberg may confuse players looking for a straight-action RPG, but those who take their time will quickly pick up on the best moments of this experience. Like the option in the game where you can relax, approaching this casually reveals its clever nuances and a narrative arc that can otherwise be skipped by those rushing to clear dungeons. The time mechanic isn’t there to rush you, but it enhances late-game moments as you become more involved in Hiterberg’s daily life. There are criticisms about combat effectiveness or a narrative that won’t speak to everyone. Still, the result is a game that works and showcases all of the developer’s inspirations and unique touches to deliver an adventure packed with discovery, imagination, and finding one’s path.

Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 on Switch brings back two of the Wii’s most beloved 3D platformers with their timeless creativity and refined gameplay intact. While both titles still offer exceptional platforming fun, the re-release is hampered by a high price and minimal new content. Galaxy 1’s atmospheric storytelling and hub design offer a richer adventure feel, while Galaxy 2’s tighter level design and added mechanics deliver a more robust challenge. However, fans may find the additions too light to justify a repurchase.

While it doesn't necessarily break new ground compared to its genre contemporaries, Yasha: Legends of the Demon Blade is a well-crafted action roguelite that wholeheartedly embraces its strengths. Alongside an exceptional combat flow and meaningful weapon customization, evocative character arcs shine with memorable individuality. Even if the title's greatest avenues of potential, namely the boss variety, aren't reached, this is still a worthwhile triple adventure for action enthusiasts.

Dreams of Another is a surreal, narrative-driven adventure from Q-Games that transforms traditional shooter mechanics into tools of creation rather than destruction. Drawing inspiration from the experimental PlayStation 3 era, it offers a meditative journey through metaphysical dreamscapes where shooting reveals memories, solves puzzles, and unravels existential mysteries. While its abstract structure and lack of conventional action may alienate some players, those seeking a thought-provoking, emotionally resonant experience will find much to admire in its layered storytelling and haunting visual design.

The Tokyo Chronos & Altdeus: Beyond Chronos Twin Pack brings two captivating visual novels to the Nintendo Switch, allowing a wider audience to experience their engaging narratives and stunning visuals. Tokyo Chronos offers a mysterious adventure with rich character writing, while Altdeus: Beyond Chronos combines a powerful narrative with futuristic mecha battles. Both games run smoothly on the Switch, maintaining their emotional depth and immersive soundtracks.

Under Night In-Birth II [sys:Celes] delivers as a solid sequel, tying up the narrative and introducing fresh characters and gameplay. Its unique combat system, stunning pixel art, and new training features make for a deeply engaging experience. Despite initial online hiccups, the game's stable rollback netcode ensures smooth matches. It's a standout choice for both newcomers and series veterans seeking intense fighting action.

Natsu-Mon! 20th Century Summer Kid is a cozy game above the rest, exuding a charming vibe that just comes across naturally. It’s the ultimate pre-internet summer vacation time capsule. It’s one thing for a video game to help you escape the real world, but what about a game that ends up teaching you to appreciate your world a little more? It’s easy to take the grind of life as ordinary and for granted, but sometimes it’s worth seeing the world like a little kid again.

The Blind of the New World is an emotional, metaphorical story about two isolated, misunderstood people discovering a connection. Although I wish the presentation weren’t so simple, the writing on its own is strong enough to hold your attention. The sci-fi and romance themes provide readers with a bittersweet edge to some memorable conclusions.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land is a good time certified with Nintendo’s seal of quality. If you’re a Switch owner, you simply can’t go wrong with jumping into this one. It may not do anything groundbreaking, but as a platformer, it unites several ideas into excellent level design pacing, with everything coming together smoothly for an adventure that you’re sure to enjoy.

Luna: The Shadow Dust is a nice nod to classic point-and-click puzzle games. Everything melds together beautifully, and it provided me with a solid puzzle experience. Despite my aversion to this genre, I found the experience pleasant overall. Some of the puzzles left me stumped, but after getting through them I felt accomplished in their defeat.

Timelie is an approachable time-manipulation adventure that only borders on the line of overly complicated or too straightforward. It strikes a perfect balance with its mechanics and even introduces unique elements into the formula that make it stand out in the genre. The open narrative and lack of enemy types leave a bit to be desired, but this is one of the best time-based puzzle games that I’ve played in years.

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy is a damn great, roughly 30-hour experience that anyone can enjoy regardless of their history with any content from Marvel's extensive catalog. While combat can be effortless, it's rarely dull with clear effort poured into every imaginable corner. Character scenes are full of fun moments of dialogue but still manage to feature some emotional story beats enhanced by the cast. Looking past my critiques, I had a joyous time with Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy, and I hope it gets the praise it deserves.

Iwakura Aria is a hauntingly intimate visual novel that blends surreal classical-inspired art with a slow-burning narrative centered on mystery, trauma, and complex relationships. With evocative storytelling and a unique aesthetic, it’s a compelling experience for fans of character-driven drama, though its limited interactivity and occasional translation hiccups may deter some.

Behind the Frame: The Finest Scenery is certainly a beautiful game. From its vibrant and chill atmosphere to the gameplay, I enjoyed every moment of it, which left me surprised by its short runtime. The music across all six chapters and the engaging story that sits behind every puzzle flow naturally together providing a seamless experience. For a laidback and whimsical game, Behind the Frame can bring out the artist in all of us.

Assault Suits Valken Declassified is a superb package that not only restores and updates a Bonafide classic but comes jam-packed with worthwhile extras. The extras go beyond novelty as the strategy guide, interviews, and even a fully recorded perfect playthrough all help get the most out of this mech action game. The core experience is brutally challenging with a steep learning curve, yet it has never looked or played better than it does here. This is an easy recommendation to fans, and while it may seem intimidating to newcomers, there’s a lot to explore and discover here, and all of it is rewarding.

Chicory provides an earnest and genuine adventure full of fun puzzles, charming characters, and cute aesthetics. With a surprisingly deep and impactful storyline, the game delves into realistic themes that may hit more than you think. Though controls are clunky and there’s a level of monotony to the painting, Chicory seamlessly weaves comfort and emotions into a strong narrative adventure.

Brigandine: The Legend of Runersia is an excellent strategy RPG with all the classic elements of the Brigandine series paired with modern gameplay mechanics. The entire experience is well balanced and addictive across many battles and phases and it is made better through the excellent character writing featured in each campaign, even if some interactions are a bit dry. If you ask me, this is a must-play SRPG for any Switch owner.

The Jackbox Party Pack 11 delivers a lively mix of five all-new party games, showcasing Jackbox Games' continued creativity and understanding of group dynamics. From the collaborative fantasy trivia of Legends of Trivia to the absurd audio fun of Hear Say, this pack leans into originality and variety. While some technical hiccups and niche design choices hold a few games back, the overall experience is built for laughs, competition, and replayability.

Morbid: The Seven Acolytes is a challenging game which generally incorporates both the good and annoying elements of a Souls-like experience. Still, it manages to stand out thanks to its strong dark fantasy presentation, rich Lovecraftian lore, and gameplay systems that offer methodical combat and plenty of features to make the adventure satisfying. It’s a difficult game, for sure, but it doesn’t forego quality-of-life features for the sake of being difficult, and so in this sense, many players outside of the Souls fandom can get something out of it.

The challenge I described at the beginning of this review is capably met by Homeworld 3, even if its story felt a little simplistic. Its lightweight story did not stop me from being captivated by its depiction of the endless, beautiful void of space. The frustrating, difficult-to-master control scheme has been both modernized and preserved for those who crave the classic experience. It's easily beautiful and satisfying enough to meet the standards of classic players and entice a brand-new crowd of interstellar heroes.

Kingdom Hearts: Memory of Melody is an incredibly charming game that finally brings the stellar array of music from the series into the spotlight. Its various options and modes allow any Kingdom Hearts fan to enjoy, but it doesn’t completely make up for some of the missing tracks. Still, the memories that these songs hold are represented brilliantly by a competent and addictive rhythm system that you’d be hard-pressed not to love.

Mistonia’s Hope -The Lost Delight- offers a rich narrative that blends cold revenge with emotional character development, set against a fantasy backdrop of noble intrigue and slow-burn romance. Though the romance unfolds gradually, the emotional payoff is significant for those patient enough to follow Aprose’s journey to healing.

Ever17: The Out of Infinity is a legendary visual novel that blends gripping storytelling, intricate character routes, and mind-bending twists. Originally released in 2002, this HD rerelease modernizes the experience while preserving the atmospheric tension that made it a cult classic. With its multi-protagonist perspective, immersive soundtrack, and layered narrative, Ever17 remains a must-play for visual novel fans—even if some script changes and added content may divide purists.

Fuga: Melodies of Steel 2 is a remarkable sequel that borrows many gameplay elements and assets from its predecessor while introducing new systems that improve the experience. Regardless, the emotional impact of the story weighs differently on the cast this time as we explore Malt’s mental capability and how he struggles with leadership. It’s a genuinely addictive and heartwrenching experience that delivers during every moment of gameplay.

Tails of Iron borrows inspiration from other challenging games, but its beautifully crafted world and thought-provoking narrative definitely deserve your attention. Every new area offers more to explore and tests your skills to see this rodent’s adventure through until the end. Tails of Iron is an under-rat-ed gem that will make a mighty fine addition to your indie game collection this year despite some rare bugs and needed updates to the combat systems.

Zool Redimensioned takes a classic game and makes it so much better. It’s an easy recommendation for platforming fans, even with so many other great games available in the genre. Sure, it carries some baggage from a bygone era where far too many games were trying to be Sonic, but this new release gives some measure of identity to a cult classic. Whether you’re a fan from the old days or simply after a well-designed platformer, Zool Redimensioned is quite literally the student textbook on genre fundamentals.

Rising Hell is a standout roguelite that isn’t trying to break your budget. Those new to the genre and diehards alike will find plenty of depth to this challenging skill-based experienced. Its lasting power is yet to be seen, but bursts of gameplay provide enough to warrant multiple playthroughs as you try to get further. Rising Hell delivers a unique spin on the roguelite formula and creates a balanced experience for any who plays.

Streets of Rage 4: Mr. X Nightmare DLC exceeded my expectations, adding to an already fantastic game. The new characters and weapons deliver a unique experience, and the survival mode can keep you playing for hours. On top of that, the price is exceptionally reasonable for what you get. If you are a fan of beat ’em ups, this is one DLC that shouldn’t be passed up.

Rubato is a wildly unpredictable physics-based platformer that thrives on chaos, blending fast-paced traversal, absurd humor, and constant mechanical shifts into an experience that defies easy explanation. What begins as a seemingly simple 2D adventure quickly evolves into a genre-hopping, idea-dense journey filled with strange characters, unexpected gameplay twists, and a surprisingly compelling underlying narrative. While its early pacing and tonal randomness may alienate some players, those who embrace its unconventional structure will find a deeply engaging and rewarding experience that stands out in the indie space.

Metal Max Xeno: Reborn not only feels like a far more complete and polished game than its immediate predecessor, but it’s also true to the Metal Max experience. There’s no JRPG quite like this desert-punk vehicular combat RPG, thanks to its rich post-apocalyptic setting brimming with content and deep customization options. The best part is, that you get to save humanity from extinction at your own pace.

Dirt 5 provides a more approachable racer that acts as a decent successor to Dirt 4 and Dirt Rally while taking on the series in a few different ways. Diehard series fans might miss some of the more simulation aspects from the series, but Codemasters definitely found a healthy balance of the two offerings. Sure, you might not be blown away by the graphics, but you won’t go wrong adding this fun racer to you next-gen launch catalog.

Legal Dungeon will be a standout in my mind for an unidentifiable but significant amount of time. I’d highly recommend it for fans of detective dramas, unorthodox adventure titles, and puzzle game players who like their stories with extra intrigue.

Dogworld is a charming retro-inspired 2D Metroidvania that provides a unique gameplay experience through its aesthetic, story, and mechanics. However, the game suffers from mirroring its retro-inspirations too closely. Still, my general first impressions didn’t fail me, and I found a lot to love about this quirky adventure.

Picross S SNK Classics & NeoGeo Edition brings nostalgic charm to Jupiter’s beloved puzzle series with pixel art tributes to SNK’s legendary arcade catalog. Featuring content from The King of Fighters, Metal Slug, and Samurai Shodown, it combines polished mechanics with SNK flair. While the presentation delights longtime fans, the lack of deeper historical context holds it back from being a definitive celebration.

The Switch is a good home for Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 Road to Boruto. I didn’t have an issue with online gameplay or any of the single-player modes, and other than a few frame drops, fights were fluid and responsive. If you’re a Naruto fan and have somehow not played this game yet, this is probably the perfect way to.

Synergia is excellent for any fans of cyberpunk thrillers. Getting to understand the nuances of this world and the clash of humanity and AI as the lines blur between their differences was a great experience. The illustrations and supporting cast only complement the joy of following the relationship of the main protagonists. There’s a few moments of overwhelming exposition and confusing plot points, but it all leads up to a satisfying conclusion.

The Walking Dead Onslaught is an awesome VR experience that centers around these characters that mean so much to fans of the show. The developer did a great job adapting the narrative of the show with an original story that feels like it could be its own episode. Killing Walkers has never been more fun, and I would happily go on another supply run again, even if it means encountering some random glitches.

I set my expectations for The DioField Chronicle relatively high, which is a recipe for disaster. However, I’m pleased to report that I enjoyed this game at every turn. This ambitious cast star in a narrative that is running a contest for how much wool they can pull over each other’s eyes, and I am here for it every step of the way. I’d like some more, please too. A sequel or something in the same world with more political mayhem sounds fantastic. And more Waltaquin.

Ninja Gaiden 4 marks a significant evolution for the iconic action series, blending the punishing precision fans expect and putting that on the shoulders of a new protagonist with some of the most stylish action systems to date. While its narrative stumbles and some enemy encounters repeat, the fluidity of its systems and incredible pacing make it one of the most thrilling action games in recent memory.

There’s no doubt that the F1 series feels like a yearly iterative experience, but Codemasters has done an outstanding job with F1 23 because it improves upon last year’s title in almost every way. The increased accessibility options, enhanced driving mechanics, and welcome return of the Braking Point story mode are all steps in the right direction for the Formula 1 gaming community.

The lore-heavy narrative also becomes increasingly compelling thanks to a multi-faceted and charming cast. When throwing in a new game plus and even a brand-new difficulty into the mix, Visions of Mana is a refreshing modern classic that can hook you for a gripping 60-70 hours without relenting.

A clever narrative adventure, The Posthumous Investigation transforms the works of Machado de Assis into a noir-inspired mystery set in a stylized Rio de Janeiro, blending literary homage with investigative gameplay. Its looping structure and character-driven intrigue create a compelling puzzle, even if rigid progression and limited interaction occasionally disrupt the flow. The result is a thoughtful, atmospheric experience that rewards patience and curiosity while introducing players to a rich cultural legacy.

Diablo II: Resurrected is a faithful remaster of the original that defined the gold standard for the action role-playing genre. With 4K graphics, a higher frame-rate, fully remade cinematics, and a vast array of quality of life changes, this is an experience that serves as a love letter for nostalgic and veteran players and an enticing invitation for newcomers.

Stranger of Paradise Final Fantasy Origin is an undeniably stellar action game boasting addictive mechanics that will cater to a myriad of crowds. Even when accounting for a few minor critiques, the combat is some of the best the franchise has to offer. Further, its clever writing choices and conclusion will undoubtedly be lasting and impressionable for those engaged by the narrative.

There was a lot of meticulousness shown in the creation of a story-based game like South of the Circle. Though it’s not perfect, and the gameplay may not be to your liking, the level of interactivity and immersion that emanates from Peter’s life is impressive. Just like a cinematic film, it left me thinking about the experience. the characters, and what I had just witnessed. I felt like I had left a movie theater with a satisfied grin on my face.